Ceremony talk

Drawing from her experience of helping more than 100 couples tie the knot, Sarah Bloxham knows how to make a ceremony truly meaningful. Here, she shares her top tips.

Story by Photo Eva Bradley

Drawing from her experience of helping more than 100 couples tie the knot, Sarah Bloxham knows how to make a ceremony truly meaningful. Here, she shares her top tips. For more insights from industry pros, see the Spring issue of New Zealand Weddings, on shelves now!

‘The perfect celebrant will be someone you feel a personal connection with – I can’t emphasise that enough. The ceremony is the most meaningful part of the day, so feeling comfortable with the person running the show is a must. Before choosing someone, ask them plenty of questions. Ask what made them become a celebrant and for an overview of what they do. A good officiant needs to be confident but not overbearing – it’s important your ceremony is tailored to reflect what makes you unique as a couple.

‘Having special friends deliver a reading is a nice way to include them, but don’t let too many people come up the front. At the end of the day, the ceremony is about you and your man, no-one else. If you’re writing your own vows, make sure you know them well. Being able to say them confidently and clearly will ensure they have maximum impact.

‘Always arrive five minutes before the ceremony, even if you aim to be fashionably late. By the time you get out of the car, get lined up and have photos taken, you’ll already be late down the aisle. You don’t want your guests to be restless or uncomfortable before proceedings have even begun.’